Freedman’s Village, the first experience of life out of bondage for thousands of African Americans, was organized near this site in 1863 to alleviate overcrowded Contraband camps in Washington, D.C. The Village contained a hospital, kitchen/mess hall, school house, “old people’s home,” and laundry among other structures. Intended to be a temporary refuge, the Village developed into a semi-permanent settlement. It was a place where former slaves were able to attain legal rights, freedom, and self determination. Development, the expansion of Mount Vernon Avenue, and a bridge over the Potomac caused the Village to be closed permanently in 1900.